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Shadow in the Dark: The Chronicles of Xan Book One by Anthony Barone Kolenc

Summary

The Shadow passes through the midnight chill, dark and silent. Two small boys peer down at it in terror. "It's back," one of them cries in a faint whisper. Bandits attack a medieval village. A young boy is injured and loses his memory. He wakes up at a Benedictine monastery and is given the name Xan -- short for Alexander.

But when the monastery is raided and a monk is accused of a violent crime, Xan must uncover the truth. Could the raid be related to the one that destroyed his village? And what about the shadowy figure Xan has seen lurking on the abbey grounds at night? Mystery. Danger. Adventure. It's all here. And true forgiveness and courage too.

Shadows in the Dark - Kolenc

Review

Shadow in the Dark by Anthony Barone Kolenc is an exciting middle-grade adventure. The story, set in a medieval village, is about a boy who is injured and loses his memory. With the help of a group of Benedictine monks, Xan (short for Alexander) begins to heal and discover his identity. In the process, he uncovers a sinister plot that not only involves his past but places him, and those around him, in danger.

This short novel has a lot to offer. Adventure, mystery, history, and an abundance of faith. Older elementary and middle-school boys will especially enjoy this swashbuckling tale. While set in the past, here are plenty of issues modern day readers will relate to: scary tales of dark shadows, peer pressure, standing up for what is right, and discovering one’s faith. This first book in The Chronicles of Xan is an enjoyable read.

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Copyright 2020 Leslea Wahl